Utility knife

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to cutting devices. More specifically, the illustrated embodiment of the present invention relates to a utility knife having a pair of handles that can pivot about an axis relative to each other to expose an interior compartment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cutting devices, such as utility knives, have been developed for use in various applications, such as, for example, construction, packaging and shipping, carpet installation, as well as other purposes.

Some utility knives include two mating halves secured to one another with a screw. A blade is fixed between the two halves and is released and replaced by removing the screw and separating the two halves. The screw is typically removed by using a screwdriver. Also, the two halves of these utility knives are often made from metal material.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One object of the illustrated embodiment of the invention is to provide a cutting device that allows for easy replacement of a knife blade.

Another object of the illustrated invention is to provide a cutting device that allows for easy replacement of a knife blade without disassembling the device.

Another object of the illustrated embodiment of the invention is to provide a cutting device with an improved grip.

These and other objects of the illustrated embodiment of the invention may be achieved by providing a cutting device comprising first and second handles coupled to one another such that the first and second handles can pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis between an open position in which a cavity formed between the first and second handles is open and accessible to a user and a closed position in which the cavity is closed, the first and second handles being permanently fastened to each other; a securing and releasing mechanism mounted for rotation about the pivot axis such that the securing and releasing mechanism rotates between a secure position in which the first and second handles are fixedly secured to each other and a release position in which the first and second handles are free to pivot about the pivot axis in a permanently fastened manner between the closed position and the open position, the securing and releasing mechanism being limited to the extent to which the securing and releasing mechanism can move away from the secure position so as to be unreleasably attached about the pivot axis; and a first knife blade being secured between the first and second handles.

The objects of the illustrated embodiments of the invention may be further achieved by providing a cutting device comprising first and second handles coupled together such that the first and second handles can pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis between an open position in which a cavity formed between the first and second handles is open and accessible to a user and a closed position in which the cavity is closed, the first handle having a first side portion and the second handle having a second side portion, which is opposite to the first side portion; a first knife blade being secured between the first and second handles; and a gripping member having a gripping surface formed of elastomeric material and coupled to at least one of the first and second handles, the gripping surface having a first side section, a second side section, and a bottom section positioned between the first and second side sections, the first side portion of the first handle and the first side section of the gripping surface forming a first side of the cutting device, and the second side portion of the second handle and the second side section of the gripping surface forming a second side of the cutting device, which is opposite to the first side of the cutting device, and the first and second handles being formed from material different than the elastomeric material of the gripping surface.

The objects of the illustrated embodiments of the invention may be further achieved by providing a cutting device comprising first and second handle members coupled to one another such that the first and second handle members can pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis between an open position in which a cavity formed between the first and second handle members is open and accessible to a user and a closed position in which the cavity is closed, the first handle member having a first side portion, an opposite second side portion, and a bottom portion positioned between the first and second side portion, the first and second side portions extending upwardly from the bottom portion to define, along with the bottom portion, a hollow pocket of the cavity, the bottom portion being split by a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis, the first and second side portions being positioned on opposite sides of the plane, the first side portion of the first handle member forming a first side of the cutting device, the second side portion of the first handle member and the second handle member forming a second side of the cutting device, the second handle member configured such that in the open position, the second handle member is pivoted away from the pocket to permit access to the pocket, while in the closed position the second handle member blocks access to the pocket; and a first knife blade being secured between the first and second handle members.

Other objects, features, and advantages of the illustrated embodiment of the present invention and the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The illustrated embodiment of the present invention is further described in the detailed description which follows, by reference to the noted drawings by way of non-limiting exemplary embodiments, in which like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrated embodiment of the present invention in the form of a cutting device with a knife blade shown in phantom;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the cutting device shown in FIG. 1 showing the cutting device in a closed, operative position;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the cutting device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line <b>4</b>—<b>4</b> of FIG. 2 with the securing and releasing mechanism in the secured position;

FIG. 5 is a side view of one of the handles of the cutting device shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the cutting device shown in FIG. 1, but showing the cutting device in the open, inoperative position;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4, but illustrating the securing and releasing mechanism in the released position;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 4, but illustrating only the gripping member, with the handles and the knob illustrated in dashed lines;

FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 8, but illustrates an additional embodiment of the gripping member in which the gripping member has a supporting layer beneath a gripping surface;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line <b>10</b>—<b>10</b> of FIG. 2;

FIG. 11 is partial rear view in partial section of the cutting device illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of a cutting device in accordance with an additional embodiment of the present invention in the open position;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the rear locking mechanism of the cutting device of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 10, but illustration the rear locking mechanism of the cutting device of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of the cutting device of FIG. 12 in the open position;

FIG. 16 is an enlargement of the front locking mechanism illustrated in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a front, partial side view of the cutting device of FIG. 12;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line <b>18</b>—<b>18</b> of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a top, perspective view of the two handles of the cutting device of FIG. <b>12</b> and with the knob and washer shown in exploded view;

FIG. 20 is a side, perspective view of the two handles of the cutting device of FIG. 12;

FIG. 21 is partial, cross-sectional view of the cutting device shown in FIG. <b>19</b> and illustrating the manner in which the fulcrum forces the front of the cutting device to close before the rear;

FIG. 22 illustrates a drive pin in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention as it begins to engage the threaded stud; and

FIG. 23 illustrates the drive pin of FIG. 22 after full frictional engagement with the threaded stud.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring now, more particularly to the drawings, there is shown in FIGS. 1-3 thereof a cutting device in accordance with one illustrated embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated embodiment is in the form of a utility knife, generally indicated at <b>10</b>. The knife <b>10</b> is capable of having its handle sections pivoted relative to each other to access an interior cavity without fully separating the handle sections. A mechanism, which can be operated by hand, can secure the handle sections in a closed position or permit the handle sections to move to the open position. Also, the knife <b>10</b> can include a gripping member that allows for easy gripping of the knife. It should be understood that the knife <b>10</b> is one illustrated embodiment incorporating principles of the invention, and illustrating how one embodiment can be constructed and function.

As seen in FIGS. 1-3, the knife <b>10</b> can include first and second relatively rigid handles, generally indicated at <b>12</b> and <b>14</b>, respectively. The knife <b>10</b> further includes a fastener assembly, generally indicated at <b>16</b>, which couples the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> to one another. The first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> can pivot relative to one another between an open, inoperative position (FIG. 6) and a closed, operative position (FIG. 1) about the fastener assembly <b>16</b>. The fastener assembly <b>16</b> can also secure a gripping element <b>18</b>, such as an elastomeric member, in abutting relation with respect to the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>.

A knife blade <b>20</b> (shown in phantom in FIG. 2) is removably and securely positioned between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are moved into their closed, operative position and secured therein by the fastening assembly <b>16</b>.

The first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> may be made from various sturdy materials that permit the user use the cutting device <b>10</b> as intended. Specifically, the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> can be made from metal, for example, by molding. The handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b> can also be formed from other materials, such as plastic, for example, by molding. Additionally, each handle <b>12</b> and <b>14</b> can be made as a composite or, as illustrated, be integrally formed as a single, unitary element.

The handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> can also have complementary configurations with one another. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> constitute mating halves of the knife <b>10</b>. Even though the illustrated embodiment does not show that both handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b> are perfect halves, they generally form two sides or halves that mate with each other. The first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> each have a front end or front blade retaining portion <b>22</b>, <b>24</b>, an intermediate marginal portion <b>26</b>, <b>28</b> and a rear gripping portion <b>30</b>, <b>32</b>, respectively.

As seen in FIGS. 3 and 6, the front blade retaining portions <b>22</b>, <b>24</b> of the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>, respectively, cooperate to form a front tip or nose portion <b>34</b> from which the knife blade <b>20</b> projects outwardly and forwardly to present a cutting edge <b>36</b> thereof. A projecting flange <b>38</b> can be formed at a forward portion <b>39</b> of the front blade retaining portion <b>22</b> and inwardly extends from the front blade retaining portion <b>22</b> to define an upper blade supporting surface <b>40</b> on an underside thereof. Spaced blade engaging protrusions <b>42</b> downwardly extend from the upper blade supporting surface <b>40</b>.

As seen in FIG. 6, the knife blade <b>20</b> (shown in phantom in FIG. 6) can have a generally trapezoidal shape with the cutting edge <b>36</b> along a large straight side thereof opposite a short straight side <b>46</b>. The ends of the knife blade <b>20</b> can be defined by angular edges <b>48</b>, <b>50</b>. Notches <b>44</b> can be formed in the short straight side <b>46</b> of the knife blade and can be configured to mate with a complementary blade engaging protrusion <b>42</b>.

As seen in FIG. 5, a side blade supporting surface <b>52</b> extends downwardly from the upper blade supporting surface <b>40</b>. A recessed magnet-carrying portion <b>54</b> can be formed in the side blade supporting surface <b>52</b> and be configured to carry a magnet <b>56</b>. The magnet <b>56</b> can slidably support the knife blade <b>20</b> when the knife blade <b>20</b> is operatively secured between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the recessed magnet carrying portion <b>54</b> and the magnet <b>56</b> can have complementary configurations, as best shown in FIG. <b>3</b>. The magnet <b>56</b> may be adhesively secured within the recessed magnet-carrying portion <b>54</b> or, alternatively, the magnet <b>56</b> may be bonded or secured within the recessed magnet-carrying portion <b>54</b> in any appropriate manner.

As seen in FIG. 5, the front blade-retaining portion <b>22</b> can further include an inwardly extending stop member <b>58</b>. The stop member <b>58</b> can have an angular stop surface <b>60</b> configured to abut the angular edge <b>50</b> of the knife blade <b>20</b>. The angular stop surface <b>60</b> and the angular edge <b>50</b> can have substantially complementary planar configurations.

Defined on the opposite side of the stop member <b>58</b> is an angular stop surface <b>62</b>. The angular stop surface <b>62</b> is configured to abut the front blade retaining portion <b>24</b> of the second handle <b>14</b> to help stop relative pivotal movement between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> with respect to one another, as will be described in greater detail below.

A gripping element in the form of a thumb grip <b>64</b> integrally, inwardly extends from an upper surface <b>65</b> of the front blade-retaining portion <b>22</b>. The thumb grip <b>64</b> has a generally triangular configuration (when viewed from above in FIG. 1) and may have a series of grooves formed therein for improving gripping when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are manually engaged by a user.

Extending rearwardly from the thumb grip <b>64</b> is the intermediate marginal portion <b>26</b> of the first handle <b>12</b>. As seen in FIG. 4 (and in FIG. 12 with respect to cutting device <b>210</b>), the intermediate marginal portion <b>26</b> has an exterior gripping member engaging surface <b>66</b> that extends rearwardly to the rear gripping portion <b>30</b>. An outwardly extending projection <b>70</b> extends from the exterior surface <b>66</b> for engaging with the gripping member <b>18</b>.

As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, a threaded boss <b>72</b> extends inwardly from a generally flat, interior side surface <b>74</b>, which is disposed on the opposite side of the first handle <b>12</b> as the outwardly extending projection <b>70</b>. The threaded boss <b>72</b> has a hollow configuration, represented by a bore <b>76</b> (FIG. <b>3</b>). The bore <b>76</b> is configured to receive fastener <b>78</b> such as a rivet or drive pin therein. As seen in FIG. 4, when the bore <b>76</b> of the threaded boss <b>72</b> receives the fastener <b>78</b> in a secure fashion, the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are fixedly and permanently coupled to one another. The boss <b>72</b>, the bore <b>76</b>, and the fastener <b>78</b> cooperate to form a pivot mechanism about which the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> pivot relative to one another.

If a rivet or drive pin <b>78</b> is used to secure the two handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b> together, one method of using the drive pin <b>78</b> is illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23. The drive pin <b>78</b> has a fastening end <b>180</b> and a head <b>182</b>. Also, the tip <b>184</b> of the fastening end <b>180</b> can be tapered to make the fastening end <b>180</b> easier to insert. In FIG. 22, the drive pin <b>78</b> is being inserted into the bore <b>76</b> of threaded boss <b>72</b>. The end <b>180</b> of the drive pin <b>78</b> can have a slightly smaller diameter of the bore <b>76</b> to permit the end <b>180</b> to enter the bore <b>76</b> while creating a secure frictional engagement between the drive pin <b>78</b> and the bore <b>76</b>. The engagement of the end <b>180</b> and the bore <b>76</b> can create an interference fit or a force fit. Thus, the drive pin <b>78</b> is driven into the bore <b>76</b> under force to create a substantially rigid and permanent connection when the drive pin <b>78</b> is driven fully into the bore <b>76</b> as seen in FIG. <b>23</b>. It should be understood that other fasteners <b>78</b> could be used instead of the one illustrated in FIGS. 22-24. For example, the fastener can be similar to drive pin <b>78</b> but formed such that the fastening end <b>180</b> expands within bore <b>76</b> to frictionally engage the fastener within bore <b>76</b>. Additionally, threaded fasteners could be used with mating threaded openings.

As seen in FIG. 3, a bottom flange <b>92</b> longitudinally extends inwardly from the intermediate marginal and rear gripping portions <b>26</b>, <b>30</b>, adjacent a rear end <b>94</b>, <b>95</b> of the first handle <b>12</b>. At its forwardmost end, the flange <b>92</b> defines a recessed journaling portion <b>79</b> of generally arcuate configuration that receives handle <b>14</b> as seen in FIG. <b>4</b>. Flange <b>92</b> and is configured to support the cutting edges <b>36</b> of a number of replacement knife blades <b>20</b> as seen in FIG. <b>11</b>.

In the illustrated embodiment, a manually engageable securing member, such as a knob or an annular dial <b>80</b>, is coupled to the fastener assembly <b>16</b>. As seen in FIGS. 4 and 7, the annular dial <b>80</b> can be moved between a secure position and a release position in an axial direction along the threaded boss <b>72</b>. As seen in FIGS. 1 and 4, the dial <b>80</b> extends out from within the handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b> so that it can be accessed by the user to move the dial <b>80</b> between the secure and release positions. To aid in gripping the dial <b>80</b>, the dial <b>80</b> is knurled on its circumference.

The annular dial <b>80</b> has a beveled portion <b>82</b> formed in the center thereof to receive the fastener <b>78</b> and an inwardly extending flange <b>84</b>. The beveled portion <b>82</b> and the inwardly extending flange <b>84</b> cooperate to define an elongated, threaded opening <b>86</b>. The threaded opening <b>86</b> is configured to receive the threaded boss <b>72</b> in threadedly engaging relation so that the annular dial <b>80</b> can move between its secure position (FIG. 4) and its release position (FIG. 7) in an axial direction along the threaded boss <b>72</b>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rear gripping portion <b>26</b> of the first handle <b>12</b> includes inwardly extending angular surfaces <b>88</b>, <b>90</b> positioned in converging relation with respect to one another (FIGS. <b>3</b> and <b>5</b>). As seen in FIG. 11, the angular surfaces <b>88</b>, <b>90</b> are inclined with respect to a plane <b>170</b>, which is substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis <b>176</b>, such that the short straight side <b>46</b> of the knife blade <b>20</b> extends more inwardly than the cutting edge <b>36</b>. This inclination of the angular surfaces <b>88</b>, <b>90</b> facilitates storage and retrieval of replacement blades <b>21</b> (FIGS. <b>6</b> and <b>11</b>), as will be described in greater detail below. The angle <b>178</b> of the inclination of the surfaces <b>88</b> and <b>90</b> from the plane <b>170</b> can be any appropriate angle to incline the replacement blades <b>21</b> sufficiently to make removal of the blades <b>21</b> easier.

As seen in FIG. 3, the front blade retaining portion <b>24</b> of the second handle <b>14</b> includes a projection receiving portion <b>106</b> which is configured to receive the inwardly projecting flange <b>38</b> at a forward portion thereof <b>107</b>. A recessed portion (not shown) may downwardly extend from the projection receiving portion <b>106</b> so as to be positioned adjacent the blade engaging protrusions <b>42</b> to help operatively secure the knife blade <b>20</b> between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are moved into their closed, operative position.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, a recessed portion <b>108</b> is formed in the front blade retaining portion <b>24</b> and is configured to receive the thumb grip <b>64</b> when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are secured in their closed, operative position. An inwardly projecting stop flange <b>109</b> integrally extends from the recessed portion <b>108</b>. The inwardly projecting stop flange <b>109</b> is located rearwardly of and adjacent to the thumb grip <b>64</b> when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are secured in their closed, operative position. The stop flange <b>109</b> is configured to abut against the angular stop surface <b>62</b> to help arrest relative pivotal movement between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> with respect to one another when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are moved into their open, inoperative position, as seen in FIG. <b>6</b>.

As seen in FIGS. 17 and 18, the front blade retaining portion <b>24</b> may further include an inwardly extending flange <b>172</b> that could be configured to abut a lower flange receiving surface <b>110</b> (also seen in FIG. 5) of the front blade retaining portion <b>22</b> in cooperating relation. The inwardly extending flange <b>172</b> and the lower flange receiving surface <b>110</b> could then support a portion of the cutting edge <b>36</b>, i.e., the portion of the cutting edge <b>36</b> that does not extend forwardly and outwardly from the front nose portion <b>34</b> when the blade <b>20</b> is operatively secured between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>.

As seen in FIG. 3, the intermediate marginal portion <b>28</b> of the second handle <b>14</b> has a generally annular configuration in order to receive the annular dial <b>80</b> therein. The intermediate marginal portion <b>28</b> includes outer, oppositely facing arcuate walls <b>112</b>, <b>114</b> and an outer planar surface <b>116</b> that extends between the arcuate walls <b>112</b>, <b>114</b>. The outer planar surface <b>116</b> is configured to abut an inner surface of the annular dial <b>80</b>. The arcuate walls <b>112</b>, <b>114</b> together with the outer planar surface <b>116</b> define a dial receiving space <b>118</b>. The annular dial <b>80</b> can be moved within the dial receiving space <b>118</b> between its secure position (FIG. 4) and its release position (FIG. <b>7</b>), with the fastener <b>78</b> helping to define the outward extent of the annular dial's release position in which the annular dial <b>80</b> is substantially flush with an exterior surface of the intermediate marginal portion <b>28</b> of the second handle <b>14</b>.

A central opening <b>120</b> of the second handle <b>14</b> is defined in the outer planar surface <b>116</b> and is configured to allow the threaded boss <b>72</b> to pass therethrough so that the threaded boss <b>72</b> may threadedly engage the threaded opening <b>86</b> of the annular dial <b>80</b>.

As best shown in FIG. 4, an annular projecting flange <b>122</b> extends inwardly from an interior surface <b>124</b> of the second handle <b>14</b> to be received in rotating relation with the recessed journaling portion <b>79</b>. While FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the annular flange portion <b>122</b> and its recessed journaling portion <b>79</b> of the first handle <b>12</b>. The annular flange portion <b>122</b> is circular and the recessed journaling portion <b>79</b> receives only a portion thereof while the annular flange portion <b>122</b> rotates with the second handle <b>14</b> relative to the recessed journaling portion <b>79</b> of the first handle <b>12</b>. The annular flange portion <b>122</b> completely surrounds the associated central opening <b>120</b> and the threaded boss <b>72</b> when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are secured in their closed, operative position.

The rear gripping portion <b>32</b> of the second handle <b>14</b> is substantially thinner, i.e., the rear gripping portion <b>32</b> is smaller in vertical height, than the rear gripping portion <b>30</b> of the first handle <b>12</b>. The rear gripping portions <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> constitute a handle structure, which includes a series of grooves <b>126</b> along an upper arcuate surface <b>128</b> thereof. Each rear gripping portion <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> may have a recessed portion <b>129</b> formed therein to provide additional strength and rigidity and/or aesthetic improvements to the rear gripping portions <b>30</b>, <b>32</b>.

The gripping member <b>18</b> can be formed from any appropriate material that enhances the gripping ability of the knife <b>10</b>. For example, gripping member <b>18</b> can be formed from an elastomeric material, such as, rubber, either natural or man-made, or from other material that is easily gripped, such as a soft, flexible material. The gripping member <b>18</b> has a generally U-shaped configuration with its open end facing upwardly toward the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>. It is contemplated that the gripping member may also be partially formed from plastic, but have an outer elastomeric gripping layer for engaging the user's hand.

As best seen in FIGS. 3 and 7, the gripping member <b>18</b> includes enlarged portions <b>130</b>, <b>132</b>, each defining an opening <b>134</b>, <b>136</b>, respectively, therein. Opening <b>134</b> is sized to receive projection <b>70</b>, while opening <b>136</b> is sized to receive projection <b>78</b>. The enlarged portions <b>130</b>, <b>132</b> have complementary configurations with the exterior surface <b>66</b> of the first handle <b>12</b> and the outer planar surface <b>116</b> of second handle <b>14</b>, respectively. The enlarged portion <b>132</b> substantially covers the annular dial <b>80</b> but does not completely cover the dial <b>80</b>, such that the annular dial <b>80</b> can be engageable by a user, i.e., using their thumb or finger, to rotate the annular dial <b>80</b>. Extending rearwardly from the enlarged portions <b>130</b>, <b>132</b> are upwardly facing handle engaging surfaces <b>138</b>, <b>140</b>, respectively.

The gripping member <b>18</b> defines a bottom surface <b>142</b> positioned between two upstanding side portions <b>174</b> and <b>176</b>. The gripping member <b>18</b> and the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> together are configured to provide a secure, comfortable grip for the user.

As seen in FIGS. 2 and 10, the lower part <b>142</b> of the gripping member <b>18</b> can be of solid, one-piece construction to surround the bottom surfaces of the handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b>. The exterior surface of the gripping member <b>18</b> can extend between the handle engaging surfaces <b>138</b>, <b>140</b> to define the bottom of the manually-engageable gripping surface of the cutting device <b>10</b>.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 10, the gripping member <b>18</b> has a forwardly protruding member <b>146</b> located at the rear of the gripping member <b>18</b>. The protruding member <b>146</b> is configured to engage the upper surface of the flange <b>92</b> so as to aid in retaining the gripping member <b>18</b> in secured relation with respect to the first handle <b>12</b>.

As seen in FIGS. 4 and 11, the gripping member <b>18</b> is secured to the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>. For example, the outwardly extending projection <b>70</b> of handle <b>12</b> may extend through the opening <b>134</b> in the enlarged portion <b>130</b>, the underside surface of the forward protrusion <b>146</b> at the rear of the gripping member <b>18</b> may engage the upper side surface of the flange <b>92</b> of the first handle <b>12</b>, and the fastener <b>78</b> may extend through the opening <b>136</b> in the enlarged portion <b>132</b> and extend into the bore <b>76</b> formed in the threaded boss <b>72</b>. When the gripping member <b>18</b> is secured to the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>, the handle engaging surface <b>138</b> of the gripping member <b>18</b> is received in the exterior gripping member receiving surface <b>66</b> of the first handle <b>12</b> and the handle engaging surface <b>140</b> of the gripping member abuts bottom of the rear gripping portion <b>32</b> of the second handle <b>14</b>.

Another embodiment of the gripping member is illustrated in FIG. <b>9</b>. Gripping element <b>218</b>, as seen in FIG. 9, is substantially identical to gripping member <b>18</b> except for the presence of an interior supporting layer <b>220</b>. Layer <b>220</b> is fit within the same dimensions of gripping member <b>18</b>, since it fits within a recess <b>222</b> of the outer surface <b>224</b> of the gripping member <b>218</b>. Whereas the outer surface <b>224</b> can be made of a gripping material similar to gripping member <b>18</b>, such as an elastomeric material, the layer <b>220</b> is preferably made of a more rigid layer, specifically plastic, to provide structural support to the gripping member <b>218</b> and to increase the structural strength of the gripping member <b>218</b> especially in the areas of the gripping member <b>218</b> that form the bottom of the cutting device in which it is employed, such as bottom section <b>225</b>.

As seen in FIG. 3, a biasing member <b>96</b>, such as a spring, can be included between the handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b>. The biasing member <b>96</b> has a front portion <b>98</b> and a rear portion <b>100</b>. At the transition between the front portion <b>98</b> and the rear portion <b>100</b>, a transverse bend <b>99</b> orients the front portion <b>98</b> at an obtuse angle with respect to the rear portion <b>100</b>.

The front portion <b>98</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b> is slightly flexed into an arcuate configuration such that the front portion <b>98</b> biases the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> away from one another when the annular dial <b>80</b> is in the release position thereof. In the closed, operative position of the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>, the front portion <b>98</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b> is biased into a generally flat configuration between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>.

The front portion <b>98</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b> forms a circular opening <b>104</b> therein that is configured to receive the threaded boss <b>72</b> therethrough. The opening <b>104</b> positions the biasing member <b>96</b> in adjacent relation to the first handle <b>12</b> such that the rear portion <b>100</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b> can be supported on the flange <b>92</b>.

The rear portion <b>100</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b> is configured to facilitate replacement blade storage between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> by biasing the replacement blades <b>21</b> against the inwardly extending angular surfaces <b>88</b>, <b>90</b>, as seen in FIG. <b>17</b>. The rear portion <b>100</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b> includes a tab <b>102</b>, which upwardly extends therefrom.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tab <b>102</b> is bent inwardly, toward the second handle <b>14</b> (as shown in FIG. <b>11</b>), which may facilitate “loading” of replacement blades <b>21</b> in the cutting device <b>10</b>. For example, a user may easily place the cutting edge of a replacement blade <b>21</b> between the bent tab <b>102</b> and the first handle <b>12</b> and then push the blade <b>20</b> toward the flange <b>92</b> until the cutting edge thereof engages the flange <b>92</b>. Thus, the replacement blade <b>21</b> can easily slide between the bent tab <b>102</b> and the first handle <b>12</b> so that the replacement blade <b>21</b> can be secured by the rear portion <b>100</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b>.

Other configurations for supporting replacement blades <b>21</b> can also be employed. For example, the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> may form numerous cavities and inwardly extending protrusions not described herein, such as, to support a blade carrier configured to carry a knife blade <b>20</b> between the first and the second members <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> so that the length of the cutting edge extending outwardly and forwardly of the first and second members <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> is adjustable. A suitable blade carrier is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,301,428, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated into the present application by reference

Since the replacement blades <b>21</b> are identical to the knife blade <b>20</b> in construction and operation, the above description relating to the knife blade <b>20</b> will suffice for both.

Operation

The operation of the cutting device <b>10</b> will be described as follows and presents one example of the operation of the illustrated embodiment of the invention.

The first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> can be moved between (1) the closed, operative position (FIG. 1) thereof in which the knife blade <b>20</b> is operatively secured between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> and (2) the open, inoperative position (FIG. 6) thereof in which the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are axially spaced from and pivoted relative to one another about the fastener assembly <b>16</b>.

As seen in FIG. 4, in the closed, operative position, the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are secured together by the forces of the dial <b>80</b> in its tightened position on the threaded boss <b>72</b> and forcing the handle <b>14</b> against the handle <b>12</b>. The handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b> are locked together.

The handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> may be moved into their respective, open, inoperative position by rotating the annular dial <b>80</b> about the boss <b>72</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, with respect to FIGS. 2, <b>5</b> and <b>6</b>, clockwise rotation of the annular dial <b>80</b> causes the annular dial <b>80</b> to engage the threaded boss <b>72</b> so that the dial <b>80</b> moves into the secure position thereof, i.e., the dial <b>80</b> tightens the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> together and moves to the left as seen in FIG. <b>4</b>. Counter-clockwise rotation of the annular dial <b>80</b> with respect to FIGS. 2, <b>5</b> and <b>6</b>, causes the annular dial <b>80</b> to engage the threaded boss <b>72</b> so that the dial <b>80</b> moves into the release position thereof, i.e., the dial <b>80</b> moves the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> away from each other as the dial <b>80</b> moves away from handles <b>12</b> and <b>14</b> and to the right as seen in FIG. <b>7</b>.

The direction of rotation for the dial <b>80</b> is exemplary in nature, for example, clockwise rotation of the annular dial <b>80</b> could move the dial into the release position thereof while counter-clockwise rotation of the annular dial <b>80</b> could move the dial <b>80</b> into the secure position thereof.

In general, a user can effect rotation of the annular dial <b>80</b> in any appropriate manner by hand or with a tool. Preferably the dial <b>80</b> is constructed and arranged to permit the user to rotate the dial between the secure and the free position with his or her thumb or finger, or alternatively, with two hands.

After rotating the dial <b>80</b> in the proper direction, for example, clockwise to move the dial <b>80</b> into the release position thereof as seen in FIG. 7, the forward portion <b>98</b> of the biasing member <b>96</b> can bias the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> apart from one another, as seen in FIG. <b>7</b>. Then, the first and second handles can be pivoted to the open, inoperative position thereof about the threaded boss <b>72</b> to the position show in FIG. <b>6</b>. In the open, inoperative position (FIG. <b>6</b>), the knife blade <b>20</b> can be removed from between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b>, i.e., the notches <b>44</b> can be moved so as to disengage the blade engaging protrusions <b>42</b>.

As seen in FIG. 6, the gripping member <b>18</b> remains stationary with respect to the first handle <b>12</b> during movement of the second handle <b>14</b> in the counter-clockwise direction as seen in FIG. <b>6</b>. This is due to the securing of the gripping member <b>18</b> to the first handle by the protruding member <b>146</b> as seen in FIG. <b>10</b> and by the attachment of the gripping member <b>18</b> to the projection <b>70</b> of the first handle as seen in FIG. <b>4</b>.

As seen in FIG. 6, the stop flange <b>109</b> of the second handle <b>14</b> and the angular stop surface <b>62</b> of the first handle <b>12</b> limit relative pivotal movement between the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> to help reduce possible damage that may be caused by opening the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> too far apart from one another.

If there is no knife blade <b>20</b> positioned in the front nose portion <b>34</b> of the cutting device <b>10</b>, a knife blade <b>20</b> may be positioned within the front nose portion <b>34</b> when the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> are pivoted into their open, inoperative position. To position the blade <b>20</b>, the notches <b>44</b> in the blade <b>20</b> are moved until the blade engaging protrusions <b>42</b> of the first handle <b>12</b> fully engage the notches <b>44</b>. The magnet <b>56</b> will help secure the blade <b>20</b> to the first handle <b>12</b>.

Then, the user may pivot the second handle <b>14</b> around the pivot member <b>72</b> and about the pivot axis <b>176</b> until the first and second handles <b>12</b>, <b>14</b> move into their closed, operative position as seen in FIG. <b>1</b>. The annular dial <b>80</b> may then be rotated in the proper direction, for example, counter-clockwise to move the manually engageable fastener into the secure position (FIG. 4) thereof, so that the first and second handles can operatively secure the knife blade <b>20</b> therebetween.

FIGS. 12-21

FIGS. 12-21 illustrate yet another embodiment of the invention in the form of cutting device <b>210</b>. Cutting device <b>210</b> is substantially identical to cutting device <b>10</b> set forth above except for the inclusion of an additional rear locking mechanism <b>270</b>, an additional front locking mechanism <b>280</b>, a washer <b>350</b>, and a fulcrum <b>290</b> to force the front of the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> adjacent the knife blade <b>20</b> to close before the rear of the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b>. Accordingly, only those additional features of cutting device <b>210</b> will be discussed in detail. Additionally, like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

As seen in FIGS. 12-14, cutting device <b>210</b> includes a rear locking mechanism <b>270</b> to further secure the gripping portions <b>230</b> and <b>232</b> to each other when the cutting device <b>210</b> is in the closed, operative position. Locking mechanism <b>270</b> is a lug with a projection <b>272</b> and a thickened area <b>274</b>. The projection <b>272</b> extends from the handle <b>214</b> toward the handle <b>212</b>. The top surface <b>276</b> of the projection <b>272</b> is spaced lower than the outer surface <b>278</b> of the gripping portion <b>232</b> a distance that is substantially equal to the width of the wall <b>279</b> of the opposite handle <b>212</b>, adjacent the projection <b>272</b>. As seen in FIG. 14, when the cutting device <b>210</b> is in the closed, operative position, the top surface <b>276</b> of projection <b>272</b> supports the wall <b>279</b> of the handle <b>212</b>. Thus, when external pressure is applied to the wall <b>279</b> of handle <b>212</b>, the projection <b>272</b> of locking mechanism <b>270</b> will support the wall <b>279</b> and prevent the wall <b>279</b> from moving or deforming inwardly.

FIGS. 15-18 illustrate the front locking mechanism <b>280</b>, which provides additional structural support to the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> during use of the cutting device <b>210</b>. Locking mechanism <b>280</b> includes a lug <b>282</b> formed on the forward end of handle <b>214</b> and a mating slot <b>284</b> formed on the forward end of handle <b>212</b>. Lug <b>282</b> extends from recessed portion <b>208</b> and upwardly from recessed portion <b>206</b>. Slot <b>284</b> is located beneath projecting flange <b>238</b> formed in the front of handle <b>212</b> above the area receiving blade <b>20</b> and forms a retaining wall <b>286</b> on the side <b>287</b> of the lug <b>282</b> facing the exterior surface <b>288</b> of the handle <b>214</b>.

As seen in FIG. 18, when the cutting device <b>210</b> is in the closed, operative position, the retaining wall <b>286</b> maintains the lug <b>282</b> and the handle <b>214</b> to which it is attached from being separated from the other handle <b>12</b> during use. In other words, the locking mechanism <b>280</b> prohibits the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> from spreading in the area of the where the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> hold the knife blade <b>20</b>. Thus, when external pressure is applied onto the blade <b>20</b> during use and urges the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> toward separation, the side <b>287</b> of lug <b>282</b> contacts retaining wall <b>286</b> and further separation of the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> is prevented. The locking mechanism <b>280</b> is especially useful in prohibiting separation of the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> when side loads are applied to the cutting device <b>210</b>.

As seen in FIGS. 19-21, the fulcrum <b>290</b> is formed as a rib in the illustrated embodiment, which is positioned on the engaging surface <b>266</b> of the handle <b>214</b> where the engaging surface receives the dial or knob <b>80</b>. Although illustrated as an elongated rib, the fulcrum <b>290</b> can be any shape or configuration that serves the purpose of forcing the front <b>322</b> and <b>324</b> of the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b>, respectively, toward each other when the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> of the cutting device are brought together into the closed, operative position and increases the clamping force against the knife blade <b>20</b>.

As seen in FIG. 21, as the knob <b>80</b> is turned and rotated around threaded boss <b>372</b> about pivot axis <b>176</b>, the knob <b>80</b> first contacts the tip of fulcrum <b>290</b> before contacting any other part of the handle <b>214</b> or its engaging surface <b>266</b>. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 21, an optional washer <b>350</b> is employed between the knob <b>80</b> and the engaging surface <b>266</b> to facilitate untightening of the knob <b>80</b> after the knob <b>80</b> has been securely tightened against the engaging surface <b>266</b>. Thus, in FIG. 21, knob <b>80</b> first contacts the tip of the fulcrum <b>290</b> through the washer <b>350</b>.

As the knob <b>80</b> is further rotated and further moves along the boss <b>372</b> and the pivot axis <b>176</b>, the fulcrum <b>290</b> forces the front <b>324</b> of handle <b>214</b> to move toward the other handle <b>212</b> before any other part of handle <b>214</b>. This movement of the front <b>324</b> toward the other handle <b>212</b> ensures that the portions of handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> supporting and surrounding the knife blade <b>20</b> are the first portions of the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> to contact. Thus, the knife blade <b>20</b> is captured between the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> as quickly as possible. Without the use of the fulcrum <b>290</b>, the entire handle <b>214</b> would be pushed to the opposite handle <b>212</b> in along a common plane <b>352</b>, which would be substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis <b>176</b> since the knob <b>80</b> would contact the entire engaging surface <b>266</b> on both sides of the boss <b>372</b> at the same time.

Once the knob <b>80</b> is fully tightened around the boss <b>372</b>, the pressure of the knob <b>80</b> on the fulcrum <b>290</b> permits an increased clamping force to be applied to the blade <b>20</b>. Further, when the knob <b>80</b> is untightened, the fulcrum <b>290</b> facilitates swiveling the handles <b>212</b> and <b>214</b> relative to each other into the open position since the knob <b>80</b> or washer <b>350</b> is contacting only the fulcrum <b>290</b> on one side of the engaging surface <b>266</b>.

While principles of the invention have been made clear in the illustrative embodiments set forth above, those skilled in the art may make various modifications to the structure, arrangement, proportion, elements, materials, and components used in the practice of the invention.

It will thus be seen that the objects of this invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It will be realized, however, that the foregoing preferred specific embodiments have been shown and described for the purpose of illustrating the functional and structural principles of this invention and are subject to change without departure from such principles. Therefore, this invention includes all modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following claims and the disclosure above.